Words of Encouragement

[Edd S]

I just wanted to give you "Small Compact Digital" Camera folks (of which I am one) some words of encouragement.

A lot of the DSLR folks put down some of the cameras/operators, but I think, under the right conditions, our "little" camera can hold their own against the "big dogs."

Just in the last year alone, with my lowly S3IS, I have a picture on a 2008 calendar, have taken pictures that are in use by dozens churches as PowerPoint backgrounds, and now have sold a picture that will appear on the cover of a children's book this fall. Concerning the latter, I'm told not to give the name of the company or the book until they make it official. But the picture has been sold and payment has been made. They gave me a choice of money or a new XSI they had received as a promotion. I took the camera.

I still love my S3 and will use it a lot. It is convenient and does a lot in a small package.

So take heart, keep shooting, and know you have a powerful tool in your hands.

- Edd S.

[Cindi]

Edd you are absolutely correct. The only reason I made the jump to an SLR was because I kept getting frustrated in low light conditions with my S2. Too bad they couldn't have made that a bit better because I really like the large zoom the S2 offers. I miss that a lot with my XTi. Congratulations on the sale of your photo! How exciting for you!! Also congratulations on the new camera. I'm sure you are already aware...be prepared to spend $$ in the lens dept. I already have a long list of lenses I would like! LOL!!!

[pointerDixie214]

I have the S3 IS and I still use it a lot even though I have a 30D and some nice lenses.

Although the IQ with the S3 is spectacular for a point and shoot, it's no where near that of a DSLR in the right hands though. But still an excellent camera and for sure one you can take "sellable" photographs with!

If you miss the zoom range and IS with the DSLR- I would take a good look at the new 55-250mmm IS in my signature... just about even with the S3 zoom, but MUCH better IQ....

[urcunina]

I have been "taking pictures" since the mid 1940's, and got my first SLR in the mid '60s. After 25 years, got my first digital: coolpix 950. Since then, a Canon S50, A620, and S3IS.

I am still using the A620 and the S3 and think someday, I'll get a DSLR. But, in my middle '70s, if I never do that, my P & S cameras will give me tons of pleasure.

Edd S's Words of encouragement are very valid for many of us.

For an interesting trek through S3 photos, search this forum for posts by Edd S. His subject matter is diverse, interesting, and thought provoking. I've really enjoyed it.

Thanks Edd!

[RadAL]

I feel the better compacts (like 8MP or higher) are great for any shot except macro, far zooming and action/panning shots (but you can, with patience get some decent panning shots) for the most part.... awesome at static/non moving shots and smaller and more accessible (the flip screen ones do help get into more areas/angles).

[BBoi]

Congrats on the photo work Edd, I know you will make some formidable shots with the new camera.

@Cindi - Low light is exactly the reason I am considering the 400D, among others. Small compacts do have their place, but when you've been at it a couple of years, you see the shortcomings of small compacts, and want to excel passed them; and better ISO functionality, coupled with larger sensor and apature are a must. Small compacts are fantastic ! just, not as flexible as i'd have liked and I have quickly outgrown mine. I'll still use it of course, but for the pro level stuff, the 400D will get the hammering in future... well... if I settle on that one anyway.

@Edd - see you in the DSLR forums later in the year :)